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Modeling Carbon-Black/Polymer Composite Sensors.
Hua Lei1, William G Pitt, Lucas K McGrath
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 350 Clyde Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA.
Sensors and Actuators. B, Chemical
|April 21, 2012
Summary
A new mathematical model enhances conductive polymer composite sensors for identifying gaseous analytes. This model accurately predicts sensor responses and estimates analyte concentrations, guiding future sensor design.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Conductive polymer composite sensors show promise for detecting gaseous analytes.
- Understanding the underlying physical and chemical mechanisms is crucial for sensor improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a mathematical model to link analyte concentration with sensor signals.
- Investigate the relationship between sensor response and vapor pressure for specific analytes.
Main Methods:
- Constructed 64 chemiresistors using carbon-black/polyisobutylene composites with varying carbon concentrations.
- Deposited thin films onto silicon chips with platinum electrodes.
- Measured sensor responses in dry air against toluene and trichloroethylene vapor pressures.
Main Results:
- A combined conductivity and thermodynamic model was developed.
- Three conductivity model parameters were determined by fitting experimental data.
- The model adequately predicted sensor responses and estimated analyte concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The developed mathematical model provides a framework for understanding conductive polymer composite sensor mechanisms.
- The model can guide the design and fabrication of improved sensors for detecting organic vapor mixtures.
